Bailey Smith, Geelong’s young midfielder, is again at the forefront of debate, following a fresh social media storm. Then he deleted the two Instagram stories within 24 hours. The posts further indirectly attacked outspoken leaders Caroline Wilson and Mark Robinson. They have brought about more attention and backlash than ever. More than a year later, Smith’s behavior continues to distract and disrupt the Geelong Football Club. Then they have to overcome very big obstacles to control his public image.
The first post deleted looked like it was calling out Wilson. She’s an investigative journalist perhaps best known for her prosecution of Smith in the court of public opinion. Soon after, he posted an admonishing message specifically aimed at Robinson, stating, “Slobbo you are on naughty boy. These incidents come after a series of inflammatory posts that have previously landed Smith in scalding water. One of those illustrations, a photo featuring him and teammate Patrick Dangerfield that alluded to the film Brokeback Mountain, many deemed offensive.
Smith raised eyebrows again last week. Then, when Max Holmes dressed as Wilson posted his photo with realistic face paint on, Kluwe went crazy and added a semem emoji to it. This very post started a firestorm and as such, caused even greater questioning against Smith’s judgment. Geelong Chiefs Smith’s behavior has seriously damaged the Cats’ reputation and on-field success.
Even with these unfortunate events, Geelong would still have to be happy with how they’re managing Smith. Chief executive Steve Hocking gave his take on the current state of play in a statement last week. He accepted responsibility and the call for accountability, but described Smith’s dozens of positive qualities.
“I think it is time for Bailey, who brings so much good to the game, there’s no doubt about that. There is lot of good to him and at the core he has a good heart, but right now, he is becoming a distraction that his club does not need.” – Steve Hocking
All year, Smith’s behavior has shocked fans and pundits alike. Despite this important step forward, it has come under fire from Wilson and Robinson. The Geelong midfielder has been absolutely shredded this week for allegedly abusing a photographer. Others have called this episode a behavioral failure.
As always, Hocking faced the persistent controversies directly and unflinchingly. He reiterated that the club has owned up, particularly to Wilson’s situation, for their failure to address those issues. He remarked, “We have apologised for that, particularly to Caro (Caroline Wilson), it was unacceptable how that was rolled out and treated.” This statement highlights the club’s commitment to addressing the fallout from Smith’s actions.
The situation escalated further when Smith deleted a post containing an image from a controversial YouTube video that surfaced nine years ago. The video has sparked discussions about Smith’s past and its relevance to his current standing in the sport.
Now that Smith has made her choice, Geelong is determined to keep Smith happy. They need to overcome all the distractions that his behavior has caused. Hocking doubled down on the need to hold Smith accountable for his problematic use of social media and other concerns around his behavior.
“It resolves around his use of social media and some other things.” – Steve Hocking
The club remains optimistic that under the right tutelage Smith will be able to refocus his energies and talents into positive outlets. Hocking said the off-season would allow Smith time to consider his future. This time should be used to temper his approach moving forward.
